To apply through our UWC Kenya national committee, you must meet the following criteria:
Applicant age requirement:
- Applicants must be aged no less than 16 and no more than 19 years of age in the year they are planning to attend UWC.
- Applicants turning 19 years of age in 2026 must have their birthdate from 1 September to 31 December.
Citizenship and residency:
- All applicants must hold Kenyan citizenship or residency, including dual citizens.
- Applicants who are residents of Kenya must be studying and currently completing their high school education within the country.
- Applicants residing and studying outside of Kenya may apply via the UWC Kenya National Committee only, but not via other application channels, concurrently.
Education level attained by September 2026:
- Applicants may apply from all recognised educational backgrounds, including homeschooling. Successful completion and graduation by September 2026 will be required, as below:
- 8-4-4 curriculum – Form 4 (K.C.S.E)
- Cambridge IGCSE curriculum – Year 11
- American curriculum – Grade 10
- International Baccalaureate – MYP 5
- German School – Grade 10
- Homeschooling – equivalent to above based on curriculum
Personal qualities and values
While academic excellence is important, UWC seeks students who exhibit a strong commitment to UWC values:
- International and intercultural understanding
- Celebration of difference
- Personal responsibility and integrity
- Mutual responsibility and respect
- Compassion and service
- Respect for the environment
- A sense of idealism
- Personal challenge
- Action and personal example
5. Language requirements
UWC schools and colleges primarily use English as the language of instruction. While fluency is not required at the time of application, applicants are advised to attain a basic proficiency in English and demonstrate a willingness to improve their language skills.
Please note that you are only allowed to submit one application per academic year to study at UWC, even if you are eligible to apply via more than one UWC national committee.
We look forward to receiving your application and helping you embark on this life-changing journey!
If you don’t meet the criteria above, have a look at the UWC International site and find out more about other ways to apply to UWC.